Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Central Mindanao University (CMU), through its Office of Public Relations and Information (OPRI) in coordination with the National Service Training Program (NSTP), proudly hosted the final session of the Mindanao leg of the GMA Masterclass: Eleksyon 2025 Dapat Totoo Series on January 25, 2025.
The event held at the University Convention Center, saw an impressive turnout of 3,084 students enrolled under NSTP, affirming the university’s commitment to fostering informed and responsible citizenship.
CMU has been a steadfast partner of GMA’s advocacy since the launch of the Masterclass series in 2019, followed by its subsequent participation in 2022 and now in 2025.
In his welcome message, Dr. Rolito G. Eballe, University President, highlighted the event’s importance in cultivating critical thinking and combating misinformation, especially as the national elections approach in May 2025.
“It is both an honor and a privilege for CMU to serve as the host institution for today’s event, which champions the advocacy of ‘Panata Against Fake News.’ This masterclass is a significant step toward cultivating a culture of truth, critical thinking, and responsible information-sharing in our communities,” Dr. Eballe shared.
Moreover, Oliver Victor B. Amoroso, Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy, reaffirmed their commitment to engaging every Filipino, particularly the youth, in the fight against misinformation and disinformation ahead of the 2025 Philippine Midterm Elections.
The event featured award-winning speakers from GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy, including: Tina Panganiban-Perez – A veteran broadcast journalist and multi-awarded Senior Reporter; Lou Albano – Managing Editor of GMA News Online and an advocate for climate journalism; Theodore Ortiz – Social Media Assistant Manager of GMA Integrated News with expertise in digital content curation; and “Coach Hammer” Martin Antonio – A seasoned sportscaster and analyst.
Their collective expertise provided students with invaluable insights into responsible journalism, truth in information dissemination, and the critical role of the youth in the upcoming elections.
Meanwhile, adding a touch of entertainment and inspiration to the event were The Clash Season 4 Grand Champion Mariane Osabel as a guest artist and Migs Almendras, who hosted the program.
The GMA Masterclass kicked off its Mindanao leg on January 22, 2025, with sessions at Notre Dame of Dadiangas University (General Santos City), Holy Cross of Davao College (Davao City), Liceo De Cagayan University (Cagayan de Oro City), and concluded at CMU (Bukidnon).
In her closing message, Ms. Armi Sobremisana, Senior Station Manager of GMA Northern Mindanao, expressed gratitude to CMU for its hospitality.
“To Dr. Rolito Eballe and Ms. Mayflor Prantilla Arambala, thank you for your unwavering support. To the faculty, staff, and students who volunteered, your contributions made this event a success. We hope this Masterclass provided you with the insights, inspiration, and courage to discern truth and adhere to what is right. Dapat Totoo.”
As the nation inches closer to the 2025 Midterm Elections, CMU stands firm in its dedication to empowering its students with the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to build a well-informed and progressive society. [Iyren Dalipe Neri]
